Pit & Fissure Sealants

A pit and fissure sealant is a thin plastic coating that is applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of the permanent back teeth to protect them from tooth decay. Most tooth decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces. Sealants act as a physical barrier to keeping bacteria and food out of these grooves.

The chewing surfaces of the permanent molars have grooves – ‘fissures’ – that makes them prone to decay. These fissures can be deep, are difficult to clean, and toothbrush bristles may not reach all the way into the deep grooves. Plaque accumulates in the fissures, and acid from bacteria in the plaque attacks the enamel, which can cause cavities. Sealants provide protection for the group and pitted areas by providing a smooth surface covering over the fissured area

Permanent molars are most likely to benefit from sealants. The first molars usually come into the mouth when a child is about six years old. Second molars appear around age 12.  The best time to apply a sealant is shortly after the teeth erupted, before they have a chance to decay.

Sealants are painted onto the enamel, where It bonds directly to the tooth. The plastic resin bonds into the pits and fissures of the chewing surface of permanent back teeth. As long as the sealants remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants may remain several years before reapplication may be necessary. During regular dental visits, your Dentist will check the condition of the sealants.